Step-by-Step Instructions for Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to get baking! Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to making these irresistible Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls in just 55 minutes.
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, warm the milk in the microwave or on the stovetop until it reaches about 110°F (45°C). Make sure it’s warm, not hot, as too much heat can kill the yeast. Sprinkle the yeast and granulated sugar into the milk, stirring gently. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is activated and ready to help the dough rise.
2. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the flour mixture along with the melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg. Stir everything together until a dough starts to form.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much, as you want the dough to remain soft and tender.
Once kneaded, place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rest for about 10 minutes while you prepare the filling.
3. Prepare the Fillings:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon for the cinnamon-sugar filling. Set it aside.
In another bowl, gently toss the blueberries with granulated sugar. If you’re using frozen blueberries, there’s no need to thaw them, but you might want to drain any excess moisture before adding them to the rolls.
4. Roll Out the Dough:
Once the dough has rested, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough into a 12-inch by 18-inch rectangle.
Spread the softened butter over the surface of the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly across the dough. Finally, scatter the blueberries over the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Be sure to distribute the blueberries evenly, but don’t worry if they’re a little uneven.
5. Roll and Slice:
Starting from the long edge of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Once rolled up, use a sharp knife or dental floss to slice the dough into 8-10 even rolls.
6. Bake the Rolls:
Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Leave a little space between each roll to allow them to expand as they bake. Cover the dish with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for another 10-15 minutes.
While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls have risen, place them in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. Keep an eye on them toward the end of baking to ensure they don’t overbake.
7. Make the Cream Cheese Glaze:
While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese glaze by beating together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Start with 1 tablespoon of milk and add more as needed to achieve your desired consistency. The glaze should be smooth and drizzle easily over the rolls.
8. Frost and Serve:
Once the rolls are finished baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for about 5 minutes. Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the rolls while they’re still warm for maximum flavor. Serve immediately, and enjoy the sweet, fruity, cinnamon-filled goodness!
Tips for Perfect Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls
- Use fresh blueberries for the best results, but if you don’t have fresh on hand, frozen blueberries work just as well. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid before adding them to the filling.
- Make sure the dough is not too sticky—add just enough flour to keep it manageable, but don’t overdo it. This will ensure that the rolls stay soft and fluffy.
- Don’t skip the resting time for the dough—this allows the yeast to activate and ensures the dough has the right texture.
- Be cautious with the cream cheese glaze—start with a small amount of milk and add more if needed. You want the glaze to be thick enough to stay on top of the rolls without running off too much.
Conclusion
These Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect combination of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls and fresh, fruity blueberries. They’re quick to make, coming together in just 55 minutes, and are an irresistible treat for any occasion. The contrast of sweet cinnamon and tart blueberries, paired with the creamy glaze, creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself to a sweet breakfast, these rolls are sure to become a family favorite. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—you can swap out the blueberries for other fruits, add a sprinkle of nuts for crunch, or even top them with a drizzle of chocolate for extra indulgence. Enjoy these rolls warm, fresh from the oven, and savor the comfort of homemade goodness with every bite.